William Pitt, 1st Earl of Chatham, Wax Relief Portrait

Wax relief profile portrait facing right. Framed and glazed in period maple frame with hanging loop.

William Pitt, 1st Earl of Chatham (1708-1778) aka William Pitt the Elder, to distinguish him from his son, William Pitt the Younger, was known as the Great Commoner, because of his long-standing refusal to accept a title until 1766.  Ranked highly among all British prime ministers, much of his power came from his brilliant oratory. He was in opposition for most of his career and became well known for his attacks on the government. As the political leader of Britain in the Seven Years' War, he became known for his for single-minded devotion to victory over France which ultimately solidified Britain's dominance over world affairs. He is also known for his popular appeal, his opposition to corruption in government, and his support for the American position in the run-up to the American Revolutionary War. By his extraordinary parliamentary skills he dominated the House of Commons through a commanding manner, brilliant rhetoric, and sharp debating skills and clever use of his broad literary and historical knowledge.